One of the main questions surrounding early data is whether the responses and promising results will hold up in longer follow-up, Ansell explains. Examples of more mature follow-up were seen at the 2016 ASH Annual Meeting. Moreover, the responses seen with the PD-1 inhibitors such as pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab are showing response rates of 65% to 70% that are durable. Patients remain on treatment for 1 year, and sometimes 2 years, and are still benefitting from therapy.

These updated findings suggest that the responses are lasting longer and are more durable than previously thought, he adds.

One of the main questions surrounding early data is whether the responses and promising results will hold up in longer follow-up, Ansell explains. Examples of more mature follow-up were seen at the 2016 ASH Annual Meeting. Moreover, the responses seen with the PD-1 inhibitors such as pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab are showing response rates of 65% to 70% that are durable. Patients remain on treatment for 1 year, and sometimes 2 years, and are still benefitting from therapy.

These updated findings suggest that the responses are lasting longer and are more durable than previously thought, he adds.